FORMER Beirut hostage Terry Waite compared the invaluable work of hospice workers to fellow captives who helped him through his darkest days.

Mr Waite, who was on hand to plant a tree to mark the 20th birthday celebrations of Warrington's St Rocco's Hospice, said the support of fellow hostages had helped keep him going when he was on the edge of life.

He said: "I was fortunate in some respects because I only became ill towards the end of my captivity. I had a chest infection and was finding it so difficult to breathe I couldn't lie down.

"But I had been moved to be with other hostages who made the effort to stay awake and watch over me. They didn't have to say anything, just knowing they were there was a great comfort.

"I was on the edge of life and on my last legs but I didn't want to die with my family not knowing. I wasn't afraid of dying, because death is inevitable for us all. I just didn't want to die in those circumstances.

"The support I received from my fellow captives reminds me of the support work of a hospice.

"I have yet to visit a miserable hospice. They are a place of joy and happiness."

The tree Mr Waite planted is a symbol to represent the triumph of hope and prayer over adversity.

St Rocco's opened in a converted vicarage in 1985. With the support of thousands of Warrington people, it has expanded to purpose-built premises in Lockton Lane, Bewsey, offering care and support to those with life-limiting conditions.

It depends on donations to fund its work and raises around #1.5m each year.

Matron Beth Eccles said: "The fantastic support of the local community over 20 years means so much to us. Terry proved a very popular visitor and I think we'll have to invite him back again next year to celebrate our 21st."

A special "Sunflower" cake donated by Waterfields bakery was also made to mark the occasion. During his visit Mr Waite, a former special envoy to then Archbishop of Canterbury Robert Runcie, met with patients, staff and hospice volunteers.